The Best Home Solar in Claremont, IL

Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Claremont, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

StraightUp Solar

4.8
(200 reviews)
Verified

A leading Illinois-based solar installer focused on residential and commercial projects. They are known for their expertise in system design, knowledge of state-specific incentives like Illinois Shines, and comprehensive services from consultation to maintenance.

(Serves Claremont from regional office) 119 N 10th St, Columbia, IL 62236

Specialties & Features

Residential solar panel installation
Battery storage system installation
Illinois Shines incentive program

Business Information

Years in Business:12 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Sunbadger Solar

4.7
(150 reviews)
Verified

A national company with a strong presence in the Midwest, Sunbadger offers a full suite of solar services with a focus on streamlined design and financing options. They are a trusted partner for many major panel and battery manufacturers.

(Serves Illinois from regional teams) Corporate HQ in Denver, CO

Specialties & Features

Solar financing and leasing options
Grid-tied solar solutions
Professional installation

Business Information

Years in Business:10 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Rethink Electric

4.6
(80 reviews)
Verified

A local Illinois contractor specializing in both solar and electrical work. Their dual expertise ensures systems are installed to the highest electrical code standards. They offer personalized energy efficiency assessments and robust customer service.

(Serves Southern Illinois) 9 Magnolia Dr, O'Fallon, IL 62269

Specialties & Features

Energy efficiency assessments
Solar panel maintenance and repair
Off-grid solar solutions

Business Information

Years in Business:8 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Home Solar Contractors in Claremont

** The home solar market in Claremont, IL, and the surrounding Richland County area is best characterized as a developing market served by strong regional contractors. Due to Claremont's small size, there are no solar installation companies physically headquartered within the village limits. Homeowners are primarily served by established companies from larger regional hubs like Effingham, Mt. Vernon, and the St. Louis metropolitan area, all of which are within a reasonable service radius. The competition level is moderate, with several reputable, long-standing companies vying for projects. These providers are generally of high quality, holding necessary state licensing and certifications (like NABCEP). They are well-versed in Illinois-specific financial incentives, particularly the adjustable block grant program known as "Illinois Shines" or the Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit and state incentives. This translates to a gross cost of approximately **$20,000 to $35,000** for an average-sized system (7-10 kW). The availability of various financing options, including loans and leases, makes solar increasingly accessible to homeowners in the area.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All contractors are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with Claremont regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Solar in Claremont

Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Claremont, Illinois.

1What is the typical cost of a home solar system in Claremont, IL, and are there any local incentives?

For a typical Claremont home, a solar panel system costs between $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and energy needs. Crucially, Illinois homeowners benefit from the state's Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, which can provide significant long-term income, and a 30% federal tax credit. While Claremont itself doesn't have additional local rebates, your installation will be connected to the Ameren Illinois grid, which participates in net metering to credit your excess production.

2How does the Illinois climate, with its cold winters and sunny summers, affect solar panel performance?

Solar panels are very effective in Illinois' climate; they generate electricity from light, not heat, and actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. While winter days are shorter and snow cover can temporarily reduce output, the strong summer sun leads to peak production. The annual average of about 4 peak sun hours in the Claremont area is sufficient for a strong return on investment, with systems designed to handle seasonal variation.

3What local permits and regulations do I need to be aware of for a Claremont solar installation?

Installing solar in Claremont requires compliance with both local and utility regulations. You will need to obtain a building permit from the Village of Claremont and your system must pass inspection. Your solar provider will also handle the interconnection agreement with Ameren Illinois, which governs how your system connects to the grid for net metering. A reputable local installer will manage this entire process for you.

4How do I choose a reliable solar provider in the Claremont area?

Look for providers with strong local experience in Southern Illinois, proper licensing (Illinois requires a roofing license for solar installers), and positive reviews from nearby customers. Ask for references in Claremont or surrounding towns like Olney or Flora to verify their work quality and knowledge of local utility (Ameren) requirements. Always compare multiple detailed quotes that include equipment, warranty, and projected production specific to your home's layout.

5Will solar panels work during a power outage, and how do they handle severe Southern Illinois weather?

Standard grid-tied systems shut off during an outage for safety, unless paired with a battery backup. For Claremont's severe weather risks like thunderstorms and high winds, panels are rated to withstand hail and winds well above typical Illinois storm levels. Your installer will ensure the mounting system is engineered for local wind loads, and you should confirm your homeowner's insurance policy covers the solar array.